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Horse Bits for Every Horse, Rider and Discipline | Emmers Equestrian
The right bit makes all the difference in how your horse feels the contact and how clearly it understands your aids. With more than 800 bits and bit accessories, Emmers Equestrian offers one of the widest selections around, so you can find the bit that suits your horse’s mouth, your riding, and your discipline. We stock leading bit brands such as TRUST, Sprenger, Metalab, Stübben, Poponcini, AJR Sport, Velari, Beris, and Happy Mouth.
- Snaffles work directly on the mouth without leverage and are the basis of most training.
- Choose from loose ring snaffles, which move freely and encourage your horse to mouth the bit; eggbutt snaffles, which stay more still and don’t pinch the lips; full cheek snaffles, which help with steering; and Baucher bits, which keep the mouthpiece very stable in the mouth.
Bits with leverage
- For horses that need a little more control, or riders who want more refined aids, we offer pelhams, kimberwicks, gag bits, Pessoa and Beval bits, and combination bits.
- For dressage at higher levels, you’ll find Weymouth curb bits and bradoons for the double bridle.
Prefer to ride without a bit? Take a look at our hachamores.
Mouthpieces and materials
Every horse’s mouth is different, so we offer a wide choice of mouthpieces: single-jointed, double-jointed, mullen-mouth, port, and Waterford, as well as special bits for specific needs. Materials range from stainless steel to sweet iron and copper alloys that encourage salivation and soft synthetic mouthpieces for horses that are sensitive to metal.
Most bits are available from 9.5 to 15.5 cm, with thicknesses to suit ponies, horses, and larger breeds.
Complete your setup with our bit accessories, including bit guards, curb chains and chain guards, pelham roundings, gag cheeks and latex bit wraps.
Not sure which bit suits your horse? You’re welcome to visit one of our stores for personal advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose the right bit for my horse?
Start with your horse’s mouth and level of training. Most horses start in a simple snaffle, such as a loose ring or eggbutt with a double jointed or mullen mouthpiece. Only consider a bit with leverage if you need more refined aids or extra control, and always change one thing at a time so you can see how your horse reacts.
What’s the difference between a snaffle and a leverage bit?
A snaffle works directly on the mouth: the pressure on the reins is the pressure on the bit. A leverage bit, such as a pelham, kimberwick, or gag, has shanks or extra rings that multiply the pressure and also act on the poll and chin groove. Leverage bits give more control, but they need a steady, light hand.
What size bit does my horse need?
Measure the width of your horse’s mouth with a bit measure or a piece of string held across the mouth where the bit sits. A fixed-cheek bit should stick out about 0.5 cm on each side, and a loose ring slightly more, so the rings can move without pinching. Most horses take a 12.5 or 13.5 cm bit, while ponies and cobs often need 11.5 cm or smaller.
Is a thicker bit always milder?
Not necessarily. A thicker bit spreads pressure over a larger area, but many horses have a low palate or a fleshy tongue and don’t have room for a thick mouthpiece. For those horses, a slightly thinner bit is often more comfortable.
Which bit material is best?
Stainless steel is durable and easy to clean. Sweet iron and copper alloys have a slightly sweet taste that encourages salivation and a soft, wet mouth. Rubber and synthetic mouthpieces are warmer and softer, which suits horses that are sensitive to metal. The best choice is the one your horse accepts most willingly.
Which bits are allowed in dressage competitions?
In dressage, snaffles such as loose ring, eggbutt, Baucher, and full cheek bits are generally permitted, and a double bridle with a Weymouth and bradoon is used at higher levels. Pelham's, gags, Kimberwicks, and Hackamores are generally not allowed. Rules vary between federations and levels, so always check the current list of permitted bits.
How often should I replace my horse’s bit?
Check the bit regularly for wear, especially at the joints and the holes where the rings run through. Sharp edges, cracks or loose parts can hurt your horse’s mouth. Rubber and synthetic bits wear faster and should be replaced as soon as you see bite marks or damage.
Do I need bit guards?
Bit guards are rubber or gel rings that sit between the bit and your horse’s lips. They help prevent pinching and rubbing, especially with loose ring bits, and are a simple way to make a bit more comfortable for horses with sensitive skin.